Control Microsystems’ Accutech range of wireless sensors includes an acoustic monitor (AM20) to provide release detection at pressure relief valves and steam traps in process plants. The monitor is physically attached directly to the piping near the potential leak source and can send back an analogue signal proportional to the acoustic sound detected or an alarm signal when the acoustic value exceeds a threshold limit.
Operations can be alerted via their SCADA host to take appropriate action and the duration of the release can be used to calculate a released volume for environmental reporting purposes. Testing has shown that the AM20 can detect acoustic waves generated by gas releases travelling through the piping at distances of tens of metres from the source.
Unlike point gas detectors, which require routine calibration and have consumable sensors, greatly increasing their cost of ownership per point, the Accutech Acoustic Monitor requires no ongoing maintenance or calibration. Multiple points can be positioned on a site to cover any piping configuration with simple clamp on, non-intrusive installation.
The added advantage of the Accutech line of sensors is the ease of installation due to the sensors being self-contained, battery-powered wireless communication instruments. Installation and maintenance costs are minimal as there is no cabling or trenching required and the units can last approximately five years on their internal battery.
A single base radio, the Accutech BR10 or BR20, connected to the site control system can service up to 100 sensors at a given location. The base radio supports Modbus protocol for seamless integration with existing control systems.
By leveraging tried and proven measurement methods combined with secure wireless technology and advanced power management techniques, pipeline and plant operators can dramatically reduce their cost of deployment and operation, increase safety, improve environmental compliance with the regulatory requirements and avoid hefty fines.